Elderflower Season: What to Know at a Glance

When hedgerows and roadside bushes are adorned with delicate white-yellow blossoms, it marks the arrival of something special: Elderflower season has begun.

For many, it's a quiet highlight of early summer – tied to childhood memories, homemade syrup, or foraging walks in nature.

Fragrant Harbinger of Summer

Elder shrubs have been part of Central European gardens and landscapes for centuries. The black elder (Sambucus nigra) is particularly widespread. Its blossoms appear mostly between May and July, have an intense fragrance, and are highly versatile – from syrup to tea to desserts. One important note: Raw blossoms and the later berries should not be consumed in large quantities, as they contain mildly toxic substances. Heating makes them safe to eat.

Natural Benefits and Properties

Elderflower has long been associated with healing properties. In teas or syrups, the blossoms are traditionally used for relieving cold symptoms, reducing fever, or supporting the immune system. Essential oils, flavonoids, and mucilage compounds are said to induce sweating, which may help with mild illnesses. However, the effects have not been fully proven scientifically.

How to Harvest and Use Elderflower

Foraging elderflower is best done in the morning on dry days, when the aroma is most intense. Ideal locations are away from busy roads. When picking, it's recommended to use scissors and to leave some blossoms behind – ensuring enough remains for nature and other foragers.
In the kitchen, elderflower can be turned into syrup, jelly, tea, or even battered and fried as fritters. Important: Always shake well before use, but don’t rinse with water – much of the aroma would be lost.

A Short Season with Plenty to Enjoy

Elderflower only graces early summer briefly – making it all the more rewarding to enjoy it consciously.

Whether as a traditional remedy or a fragrant twist in drinks and desserts, the blossoms show how much variety local plants can offer.

Photo by Ivan Georgiev via pexels